Michael B. Smith

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael B. Smith on Monday, March 10, 2025 in Norwalk, CT. Michael succumbed to illness at home surrounded by family.
Michael was born on November 23, 1939, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa to Lionel and Mary "Mollie" Smith. He grew up in Port Elizabeth where he attended Grey High School. After high school he relocated to Johannesburg and earned a Masters of Business Administration degree from the University of the Witwatersrand, which led to a career that allowed him to leave South Africa and move to Canada, and ultimately the United States.
Michael is survived by his wife Joanna Romersa, his children Ben (and wife Maaike) and Joanna (and husband Paul), his sister Hazel, and grandchildren Mia and Lila. He is preceded in death by his first wife Jennifer.
Michael had a life-long passion for sailing and watercraft that began in South Africa. As a young man Michael built his first sailboat in Port Elizabeth and continued to build wooden ship models and full-size boats including his Gaff-Rigged Cape Henry 21 "Mehala" and the "Jennifer T" sea kayak. Michael was a skilled sailor and was at his happiest on the water. He dedicated much of his time to promoting sailing as a race official for Roton Point Club and the Norwalk Yacht Club. Michael also enjoyed painting and writing poetry.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, April 5th at Roton Point Club in Rowayton, CT.